Quiet Gasparilla Inn Weekend

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It’s amazing how refreshed I feel after 48 hours in the sand and sun… The location definitely doesn’t hurt either. Not even 90 miles away from St. Pete is my little oasis that is the Gasparilla Inn. Ever since our first visit to the historic hotel, last May, it instantly became our favorite Florida destination. David and I both needed a quiet weekend, away from our phones and responsibilities, and this Gulf Coast resort delivered!

The Inn

This corner of Boca Grande is just too pretty for words. Between our stay at the Inn and spending time at the Beach Club, I have written about this iconic location plenty. Originally opened in 1913, it has hosted titans of industry and politicians. Even during our most recent stay, we’ve mingled with CEOs, mayors, and world travelers.

The Beach Club

We arrived bright and early on Sunday morning. Even though we weren’t expecting to get into our rooms until the afternoon, I still like to take full advantage of the Beach Club. We staked our claim with two lounge chairs in the shade and caught up on some reading. The best background noise in the world is the gently rolling waves.

Lunch and Daiquiris

Once the restaurant opened up. We sipped on some delicious frozen drinks. I’m typically a banana daiquiri kind of girl but decided to mix up with mango. It was as delicious and it was pretty. I mean look at that color! Later, we had lunch in the newly renovated restaurant. You honestly can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. David is partial to the Mahi sandwich and I loved my Turkey club. Of course, sitting outside will give you a gorgeous view, but don’t forget to soak in the interior design from Kemble Interiors.

The Dining Room and BZ’s

After our afternoon in the sun, we rested up in our room to get ready for dinner. Although it’s a tiny island, there are so many cuisine options to choose from. We began the evening with pre-dinner cocktails at BZ’s. The space was cozy and buzzing, but we preferred sitting al fresco in the bougainvillea-covered patio. Seriously, this is my ideal outdoor space. After sipping the Gaspartini, we had dinner at the Inn Dining Room. Wow! This was an incredible meal. My scallops and homemade linguine were spectacular! I washed it all down with my signature dessert, key lime pie. Just look at that meringue topping. It was almost too pretty to eat. 

With the Gasparilla Inn, you can stay for either a day or a full week. The end result is always the same for me. I feel refreshed, relaxed, and sun-kissed. As 2021 continues to unfold, I highly recommend making a trip to this stunning hotel a top priority.

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

The Gasparilla Inn Beach Club

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From corner to corner, there are so many perfectly picturesque spots in Florida. When you grow up in the Sunshine State, it’s hard to pick a favorite. After years of combing, I think I’ve finally decided on a favorite vacation spot. It’s quiet, relaxed, and a quick drive away from St. Pete. No matter where you call home, you absolutely must book a stay at the Gasparilla Inn. Recently, they unveiled their newly update Beach Club. I was honored when I was able to stop by a get a tour to see for myself.

Gasparilla Inn Beach Club

Originally opening in 1911, the Gasparilla Inn has long been an oasis for travelers from across the country. Since the beginning, their Beach Club has been one of the most loved aspects of the property. Nestled right on the pristine Gulf of Mexico, it is truly a gem. In the hundred plus years, it has gone over many iterations, including being lost to a hurricane in 1921. The latest remodeling now includes three pools, restaurant, event space, and clubhouse. Of course, I can’t forget to mention the private beach space that is reserved only for hotel guests and club members. Even though it’s just a short drive away from home, I instantly feel transported to a Caribbean island.

The Clubhouse

The latest redesign is all thanks to Palm Beach based Kemble Interiors. The team is also responsible for interior design in the main hotel and was one of the driving factors for me wanting to stay at the Gasparilla Inn. To say that Kemble Interiors has perfected Old Florida is an understatement. With an endless array of palms, shells, and animal motifs, it’s perfectly quirky with just the right amount of kitschy accents. The best example of that design is in the new clubhouse. As soon as I walked in from the buzz of the pool, I knew I was going to love this space. It was quiet, inviting, and just my style. Tropical pieces left and right had me taking notes about future home decor inspiration. Note to self, I must get a backgammon table!

Food and Drink

Finally, it’s important to know that a relaxing beach weekend will leave you well fed and hydrated. The Beach Club has you covered. Because of my Memorial Day Weekend trip to the Gasparilla Inn, I’m no stranger to their delicious menu and yummy frozen drinks. Along with the new design, they also brag a revamped menu. If you’ve visited before, don’t worry, they kept all of the classics. My favorite new item is the build-your-own salad. While David was enjoying his mahi mahi sandwich, I got to create my perfect salad. All the while, we sipped on daiquiris and appreciated the endless hospitality.

As you consider where to escape the cold or simply where to have a refreshing weekend, I cannot recommend the Gasparilla Inn enough! Every element is designed for ultimate relaxation. Especially with the newly reopened Beach Club, you won’t even want to leave!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.